SUMMARY BOX: J&J to phase out pelvic mesh implants

PHASE OUT: Johnson & Johnson plans to phase out sales of surgical mesh implants used to treat women's health problems, which have been linked to injuries and triggered hundreds of lawsuits.

PELVIC PROBLEMS: The plastic mesh is used to strengthen the pelvic wall in cases of pelvic organ prolapse, in which the bladder or the reproductive organs slip out of place.

NO RECALL: The company says the decision is not related to the safety of its mesh. However, health regulators said last year that the mesh appears to carry a higher risk of complications than traditional surgery.